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10 Days of Holiday Spirit in Germany's Best Christmas Markets

destination-icon10 Day Tour of Munich, Nuremberg, Dresden and Berlin

Munich Old Town during Christmas Season
Roofs of Nuremberg in winter
Dresden River Bank in Winter
Christmas Market in Dresden
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10 Days 9 Nights
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Best Time: Jan-Dec
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Christmas Market
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History Buffs
Enjoy 10 days of holiday spirit as you explore the best Christmas markets in Germany. You’ll wander the festively decorated markets of Munich, Nuremberg, Dresden, and Berlin, discovering how Germany celebrates and preserves timeless traditions while embracing the magic of the season. You'll take a day trip to charming Rothenburg ob der Tauber, savoring roasted chestnuts in a fairy-tale town that gives itself over to the Christmas experience. You’ll also experience some of Germany’s most impressive history, architecture, and culture, all made easy with your detailed Go Real Travel itinerary and mobile app.
  • Experience Bavaria's biggest Christmas Markets in Munich and Nuremberg.
  • Stroll through charming cobblestoned lanes in enchanting Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
  • Discover the magic of Dresden's Christmas Market, Germany's oldest, filled with lights and carols.
  • Relax and enjoy scenic winter landscapes as you travel between the cities by train.
  • See iconic landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate and Berlin Wall on a private guided walk in Berlin.
Enjoy 10 days of holiday spirit as you explore the best Christmas markets in Germany. You’ll wander the festively decorated markets of Munich, Nuremberg, Dresden, and Berlin, discovering how Germany celebrates and preserves timeless traditions while embracing the magic of the season. You'll take a day trip to charming Rothenburg ob der Tauber, savoring roasted chestnuts in a fairy-tale town that gives itself over to the Christmas experience. You’ll also experience some of Germany’s most impressive history, architecture, and culture, all made easy with your detailed Go Real Travel itinerary and mobile app.
  • Experience Bavaria's biggest Christmas Markets in Munich and Nuremberg.
  • Stroll through charming cobblestoned lanes in enchanting Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
  • Discover the magic of Dresden's Christmas Market, Germany's oldest, filled with lights and carols.
  • Relax and enjoy scenic winter landscapes as you travel between the cities by train.
  • See iconic landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate and Berlin Wall on a private guided walk in Berlin.
European Adventure
Old Town
Architecture
Scenic Europe
Residence Palace
Castles & Chateaux
Exploring European Beauty
Nuremberg Castle
Castles & Chateaux
Traveling Through Europe
Old Town
Historic Landmarks
European Wonders
The Albertinum
Museums & Galleries
Captivating European Destinations
Church of our Lady
Churches & Monasteries
Picturesque Europe
Dresden Christmas Markets
Street Markets
European Charm
The Brandenburg Gate
Historic Landmarks
Discovering Europe's Treasures
The Berlin Wall
Historic Landmarks

Must see sights

European Adventure
Old Town
Architecture
Scenic Europe
Residence Palace
Castles & Chateaux
Exploring European Beauty
Nuremberg Castle
Castles & Chateaux
Traveling Through Europe
Old Town
Historic Landmarks
European Wonders
The Albertinum
Museums & Galleries
Captivating European Destinations
Church of our Lady
Churches & Monasteries
Picturesque Europe
Dresden Christmas Markets
Street Markets
European Charm
The Brandenburg Gate
Historic Landmarks
Discovering Europe's Treasures
The Berlin Wall
Historic Landmarks
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German Christmas Market Trip - Map & Itinerary

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German Christmas Market Trip Timeline

Arrival

2 nights

Munich

Germany

Train: 1.5h

2 nights

Nuremberg

Germany

Train: 2.5h

Train: 1.5h

2 nights

Dresden

Germany

Train: 2h

3 nights

Berlin

Germany

Departure

Day-By-Day Itinerary of German Christmas Market Trip

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Day 1

Arrive Munich

Day 1

Arrive Munich

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To Be Determined

Transfer from Airport

Munich has one main airport, Munich International Airport, where almost all visitors arrive. Taxis are available directly at the terminal exit, or you can arrange a private transfer for added convenience. The cheapest and fastest way to reach central Munich from is by train. The regional "S-bahn" trains delivers you from the airport train station (just follow the signs) directly to Munich's main station (München hbf) in the center of the city, from where you can easily hail a taxi that will be much less expensive than from the airport.

Transfer from Airport

To Be Determined — Transfer from Airport

Munich has one main airport, Munich International Airport, where almost all visitors arrive. Taxis are available directly at the terminal exit, or you can arrange a private transfer for added convenience. The cheapest and fastest way to reach central Munich from is by train. The regional "S-bahn" trains delivers you from the airport train station (just follow the signs) directly to Munich's main station (München hbf) in the center of the city, from where you can easily hail a taxi that will be much less expensive than from the airport.

Mid-Day/Afternoon — Altstadt

Munich boasts a large old town (Altstadt) with many beautiful historic buildings. Sometimes called the world's largest village, it is a perfect place to wander. You will discover many Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque buildings, as well as several stunning examples of modern architecture. Pleasant cafes, beer halls, cozy restaurants, and great shopping all add to the charming atmosphere.

Hofbräuhaus

Enjoy some fine Bavarian brews in a beer hall that dates back to 1589.

Originally built in 1598 by Maximilian I, Duke of Bavaria, as an extension to the state brewery, this beer hall was opened to the public in 1828, remodeled in 1897, almost completely destroyed during World War II, and reopened following its restoration in 1958. It is now situated across three floors, with a restaurant, ballroom, and beer garden, and is one of the largest tourist attractions in the city as well as a favorite of locals. This is where the ingurgitation of vast quantities of beer and pretzels has been taking place since 1644. Even if you're a teetotaller, you'll want to at least take a look at the interior of the three-storied temple to the consumption of fermented hops and watch the odd local quaff his or her ale amid the sea of tourists. There's also an attractive courtyard where you can escape the din on a summer's day or evening.

New Town Hall & Glockenspiel

Enjoy the mechanical show as the figures on the Glockenspiel on the New City Hall come to life and re-enact stories from the 16th century.

The Marienplatz is the main square of the Altstadt, and its centerpiece is the domineering facade of the neo-Gothic Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall). It is decorated with gargoyles and statues, including a dragon scaling the turrets. For a great view of the city, ascend the 279ft (85m) tower (elevator available to the left just inside the main entrance to the town hall). The highlight of the building is the Glockenspiel, which attracts large numbers of tourists at 11 am and noon (and 5pm in the summer) who come to watch the contraption in operation. There's dancing, a joust, and more, all set to musical chimes. Unusually, the New Town Hall mostly survived WWII intact, probably because it was used by Allied bombers as a direction finder for obliterating the rest of the city.

Peterskirche

Climb to the top of Munich's oldest church tower for what is still today its best view.

The best views of central Munich can be viewed from the 302ft (92m) tower of St Peterskirche, inner Munich's oldest church and possibly the city's origin point. The presence of a church on its site goes back to before the city's founding, and it has existed in a number of iterations since. Its nearly 3000ft-tall tower is affectionately called "Alter Pete" or "Old Pete" as a recognition of its significance to Munich's social and cultural history.

Viktualienmarkt

Assemble a gourmet picnic lunch in one of Europe's best known markets.

The Viktualienmarkt is one of Central Europe's finest gourmet markets where many of the stalls have been run by generations of the same family. Prices are high, but you can gather all the ingredients for an haute cuisine picnic and then seat yourself in the market's own beer garden to enjoy an al fresco lunch. The very existence of such a market in an old town quarter is the result of Munich's dedication to preserving its past. Fearing that fast food chains will replace the old-fashioned market stalls and quaint eateries that make the Viktulienmarkt one of Europe’s most charming squares, the city subsidizes the rent so they can survive on the some of Germany’s most expensive real estate.

Jewish Museum

Learn about Munich's rich Jewish heritage and see it's most striking synagogue.

The museum focuses on Munich's Jewish heritage, as well as Jewish history and culture in general, with a contemporary flair and modern means of display. Adjacent to the museum is the Ohel Jakob synagogue, which ranks among the most striking structures built in the city in recent years. It is the first synagogue to serve as the main synagogue of the city since the Nazi Kristallnacht (i.e. the Night of Broken Glass). Tours are offered but must be arranged 10 days in advance.

Frauenkirche

Restored Gothic church.

The Frauenkirche, or Church of Our Lady, dominates the Altstadt. This is because the twin onion-domed towers inspired the city council to prohibit any other building in the Altstadt from exceeding their height of 325ft (99m). Much of the interior was destroyed during WWII, but it has been rebuilt. An attraction that survived the bombing in original form is the Teufelstritt, or Devil's Footstep, at the entrance. This is a black mark resembling a footprint, which according to legend is the result of a deal the devil made with the builder to finance construction of the church on the condition that it contains no windows. The clever builder, however, tricked the devil by positioning columns so that the windows were not visible from the spot where the devil stood in the foyer. By the time the devil discovered that he had been tricked, he could not enter the already consecrated church. The devil could only stand in the foyer and stomp his foot furiously, which left the dark footprint that remains visible in the church's entrance today.

Afternoon/Late Afternoon — Arts District

Munich's Museum Quarter (Kunstareal) has grown continuously over a period of 200 years offering an extraordinary variety of museums with works from Pharaonic Egypt right through to the present day. There are 18 museums and exhibition halls, more than 40 galleries, six internationally renowned universities and numerous cultural institutions all in close proximity and within walking distance of each other.

Alte Pinakothek

Enjoy a tremendous collection of art in what was once the world's largest art gallery.

The largest art gallery in the world when it was first opened in 1836, the Alte Pinakothek can still be an overwhelming experience: the collections, which are based on the royal collection of the Wittelsbach dynasty over five hundred years, are arranged geographically and chronologically, encompassing German, Dutch, Flemish, Spanish, French and Italian art, with a timespan from the Middle Ages to the 18th century. It houses the largest collection of Rubens in the world, so be sure to stop by the Flemish paintings. Also worthy of particular attention if you're short on time are the richly comic works by Pieter Brueghel in the Netherlandish collection, and the German late Gothic and Renaissance art collection represented by the likes of Albrecht Dürer and Cranach the Elder.

Neue Pinakothek

See some of the 19th and early 20th centuries' greatest artworks.

Directly across the road from Alte Pinakothek, the Neue Pinakothek picks up where the older museum leaves off, concentrating on art from the 19th century to Jugendstil. The audio-guide tour starts with art from around 1800, prominent among which are a number of canvases by Goya, before progressing to English painting from the likes of Gainsborough, Constable, and Turner. Much of the rest of the museum is given over to German Art, with an emphasis on artists active in the court of Ludwig I, such as work by the architect who designed the Alte Pinakothek, Leo von Klenze, and the Berlin architect Karl Friedrich Schinkel. There are also works by Caspar David Friedrich and Adolph von Menzel.

Pinakothek der Moderne

Peruse 19th and 20th century art in a stylishly modern setting.

The strikingly clean-lined Pinakothek der Moderne, gathers its eclectic collection of classic modern and contemporary art, design and architecture around a central rotunda. On the west side of the building are works representing last century's key artistic movements, from Cubism through to Surrealism and beyond. The east wing is devoted to contemporary art.

Museum Brandhorst

Peruse modern art in this remarkably different building.

The Museum Brandhorst is an eye-catching structure covered with 36,000 polychromatic ceramic rods in 23 custom colors and a second layer consisting of a horizontally folded metal skin, coated in two colors. This layering and its polychromy lend the skin a varied appearance: What is vivid and three-dimensional from close up appears homogeneous and flat from afar. It was opened in 2009 to house a collection of German and modern art in a setting of restrained, spacious modernism. Its rotating exhibits include works by Andy Warhol, Jeff Koons, and Picasso, as well as major contemporary German artists.

State Museum of Egyptian Art

History buffs will love this underappreciated museum dedicated to Egyptian archaeology.

The impressive entrance to the brand spanking new State Museum of Egyptian Art is reminiscent of a grand descent into a Pharoah's tomb. Opened in 2013 to house artifacts formerly contained in the Residenz, the museum has a collection which spans 5000 years of Egyptian history.

Early Evening — Maxvorstadt

Maxvorstadt is not just Munich’s most central nightlife hotspot, it’s one of the most historically fascinating neighborhoods in all of Bavaria. The area is often called the “Brains of Munich” for its concentration of arts and education centers, including seven universities and several museums and galleries. It’s a lively spot from day to evening to be sure, with a diversity of cozy bars, restaurants, and cafes appealing to the large student population and foreign visitors.

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Day 1

Arrive Munich


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To Be Determined:

Transfer from Airport

Mid-Day/Afternoon:

Altstadt

Afternoon/Late Afternoon:

Arts District

Early Evening:

Maxvorstadt

Transfer from Airport

Transfer from Airport

Munich has one main airport, Munich International Airport, where almost all visitors arrive. Taxis are available directly at the terminal exit, or you can arrange a private transfer for added convenience. The cheapest and fastest way to reach central Munich from is by train. The regional "S-bahn" trains delivers you from the airport train station (just follow the signs) directly to Munich's main station (München hbf) in the center of the city, from where you can easily hail a taxi that will be much less expensive than from the airport.

To Be Determined — Transfer from Airport

Munich has one main airport, Munich International Airport, where almost all visitors arrive. Taxis are available directly at the terminal exit, or you can arrange a private transfer for added convenience. The cheapest and fastest way to reach central Munich from is by train. The regional "S-bahn" trains delivers you from the airport train station (just follow the signs) directly to Munich's main station (München hbf) in the center of the city, from where you can easily hail a taxi that will be much less expensive than from the airport.

Mid-Day/Afternoon — Altstadt

Munich boasts a large old town (Altstadt) with many beautiful historic buildings. Sometimes called the world's largest village, it is a perfect place to wander. You will discover many Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque buildings, as well as several stunning examples of modern architecture. Pleasant cafes, beer halls, cozy restaurants, and great shopping all add to the charming atmosphere.

Hofbräuhaus

Enjoy some fine Bavarian brews in a beer hall that dates back to 1589.

Originally built in 1598 by Maximilian I, Duke of Bavaria, as an extension to the state brewery, this beer hall was opened to the public in 1828, remodeled in 1897, almost completely destroyed during World War II, and reopened following its restoration in 1958. It is now situated across three floors, with a restaurant, ballroom, and beer garden, and is one of the largest tourist attractions in the city as well as a favorite of locals. This is where the ingurgitation of vast quantities of beer and pretzels has been taking place since 1644. Even if you're a teetotaller, you'll want to at least take a look at the interior of the three-storied temple to the consumption of fermented hops and watch the odd local quaff his or her ale amid the sea of tourists. There's also an attractive courtyard where you can escape the din on a summer's day or evening.

New Town Hall & Glockenspiel

Enjoy the mechanical show as the figures on the Glockenspiel on the New City Hall come to life and re-enact stories from the 16th century.

The Marienplatz is the main square of the Altstadt, and its centerpiece is the domineering facade of the neo-Gothic Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall). It is decorated with gargoyles and statues, including a dragon scaling the turrets. For a great view of the city, ascend the 279ft (85m) tower (elevator available to the left just inside the main entrance to the town hall). The highlight of the building is the Glockenspiel, which attracts large numbers of tourists at 11 am and noon (and 5pm in the summer) who come to watch the contraption in operation. There's dancing, a joust, and more, all set to musical chimes. Unusually, the New Town Hall mostly survived WWII intact, probably because it was used by Allied bombers as a direction finder for obliterating the rest of the city.

Peterskirche

Climb to the top of Munich's oldest church tower for what is still today its best view.

The best views of central Munich can be viewed from the 302ft (92m) tower of St Peterskirche, inner Munich's oldest church and possibly the city's origin point. The presence of a church on its site goes back to before the city's founding, and it has existed in a number of iterations since. Its nearly 3000ft-tall tower is affectionately called "Alter Pete" or "Old Pete" as a recognition of its significance to Munich's social and cultural history.

Viktualienmarkt

Assemble a gourmet picnic lunch in one of Europe's best known markets.

The Viktualienmarkt is one of Central Europe's finest gourmet markets where many of the stalls have been run by generations of the same family. Prices are high, but you can gather all the ingredients for an haute cuisine picnic and then seat yourself in the market's own beer garden to enjoy an al fresco lunch. The very existence of such a market in an old town quarter is the result of Munich's dedication to preserving its past. Fearing that fast food chains will replace the old-fashioned market stalls and quaint eateries that make the Viktulienmarkt one of Europe’s most charming squares, the city subsidizes the rent so they can survive on the some of Germany’s most expensive real estate.

Jewish Museum

Learn about Munich's rich Jewish heritage and see it's most striking synagogue.

The museum focuses on Munich's Jewish heritage, as well as Jewish history and culture in general, with a contemporary flair and modern means of display. Adjacent to the museum is the Ohel Jakob synagogue, which ranks among the most striking structures built in the city in recent years. It is the first synagogue to serve as the main synagogue of the city since the Nazi Kristallnacht (i.e. the Night of Broken Glass). Tours are offered but must be arranged 10 days in advance.

Frauenkirche

Restored Gothic church.

The Frauenkirche, or Church of Our Lady, dominates the Altstadt. This is because the twin onion-domed towers inspired the city council to prohibit any other building in the Altstadt from exceeding their height of 325ft (99m). Much of the interior was destroyed during WWII, but it has been rebuilt. An attraction that survived the bombing in original form is the Teufelstritt, or Devil's Footstep, at the entrance. This is a black mark resembling a footprint, which according to legend is the result of a deal the devil made with the builder to finance construction of the church on the condition that it contains no windows. The clever builder, however, tricked the devil by positioning columns so that the windows were not visible from the spot where the devil stood in the foyer. By the time the devil discovered that he had been tricked, he could not enter the already consecrated church. The devil could only stand in the foyer and stomp his foot furiously, which left the dark footprint that remains visible in the church's entrance today.

Afternoon/Late Afternoon — Arts District

Munich's Museum Quarter (Kunstareal) has grown continuously over a period of 200 years offering an extraordinary variety of museums with works from Pharaonic Egypt right through to the present day. There are 18 museums and exhibition halls, more than 40 galleries, six internationally renowned universities and numerous cultural institutions all in close proximity and within walking distance of each other.

Alte Pinakothek

Enjoy a tremendous collection of art in what was once the world's largest art gallery.

The largest art gallery in the world when it was first opened in 1836, the Alte Pinakothek can still be an overwhelming experience: the collections, which are based on the royal collection of the Wittelsbach dynasty over five hundred years, are arranged geographically and chronologically, encompassing German, Dutch, Flemish, Spanish, French and Italian art, with a timespan from the Middle Ages to the 18th century. It houses the largest collection of Rubens in the world, so be sure to stop by the Flemish paintings. Also worthy of particular attention if you're short on time are the richly comic works by Pieter Brueghel in the Netherlandish collection, and the German late Gothic and Renaissance art collection represented by the likes of Albrecht Dürer and Cranach the Elder.

Neue Pinakothek

See some of the 19th and early 20th centuries' greatest artworks.

Directly across the road from Alte Pinakothek, the Neue Pinakothek picks up where the older museum leaves off, concentrating on art from the 19th century to Jugendstil. The audio-guide tour starts with art from around 1800, prominent among which are a number of canvases by Goya, before progressing to English painting from the likes of Gainsborough, Constable, and Turner. Much of the rest of the museum is given over to German Art, with an emphasis on artists active in the court of Ludwig I, such as work by the architect who designed the Alte Pinakothek, Leo von Klenze, and the Berlin architect Karl Friedrich Schinkel. There are also works by Caspar David Friedrich and Adolph von Menzel.

Pinakothek der Moderne

Peruse 19th and 20th century art in a stylishly modern setting.

The strikingly clean-lined Pinakothek der Moderne, gathers its eclectic collection of classic modern and contemporary art, design and architecture around a central rotunda. On the west side of the building are works representing last century's key artistic movements, from Cubism through to Surrealism and beyond. The east wing is devoted to contemporary art.

Museum Brandhorst

Peruse modern art in this remarkably different building.

The Museum Brandhorst is an eye-catching structure covered with 36,000 polychromatic ceramic rods in 23 custom colors and a second layer consisting of a horizontally folded metal skin, coated in two colors. This layering and its polychromy lend the skin a varied appearance: What is vivid and three-dimensional from close up appears homogeneous and flat from afar. It was opened in 2009 to house a collection of German and modern art in a setting of restrained, spacious modernism. Its rotating exhibits include works by Andy Warhol, Jeff Koons, and Picasso, as well as major contemporary German artists.

State Museum of Egyptian Art

History buffs will love this underappreciated museum dedicated to Egyptian archaeology.

The impressive entrance to the brand spanking new State Museum of Egyptian Art is reminiscent of a grand descent into a Pharoah's tomb. Opened in 2013 to house artifacts formerly contained in the Residenz, the museum has a collection which spans 5000 years of Egyptian history.

Early Evening — Maxvorstadt

Maxvorstadt is not just Munich’s most central nightlife hotspot, it’s one of the most historically fascinating neighborhoods in all of Bavaria. The area is often called the “Brains of Munich” for its concentration of arts and education centers, including seven universities and several museums and galleries. It’s a lively spot from day to evening to be sure, with a diversity of cozy bars, restaurants, and cafes appealing to the large student population and foreign visitors.

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Day 2

Munich

Day 2

Munich

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Early Morning/Morning

Residence Palace

The Munich Residenz was the seat of Bavaria's Dukes and Kings from the middle ages until 1918. Originally a medieval castle, it was transformed over the centuries into a beautiful palace. Today it is open to the public and you can explore its magnificent interiors, numerous courtyards, and elegant garden. The living quarters of the royal family have been transformed into a museum which provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives of Kings and Queens. You can also peruse numerous jewels, gold objects, and other precious items which are held in the Residenz Schatzkammer (treasury).

Residence Palace

Early Morning/Morning — Residence Palace

The Munich Residenz was the seat of Bavaria's Dukes and Kings from the middle ages until 1918. Originally a medieval castle, it was transformed over the centuries into a beautiful palace. Today it is open to the public and you can explore its magnificent interiors, numerous courtyards, and elegant garden. The living quarters of the royal family have been transformed into a museum which provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives of Kings and Queens. You can also peruse numerous jewels, gold objects, and other precious items which are held in the Residenz Schatzkammer (treasury).

Residenz Palace Museum

Wander where you will, audio guide in hand, through the spectactular royal residence.

You'll experience jaw-dropping architecture and beautiful artwork as you explore the museum and the adjacent Royal Treasury. Among the many highlights, unmissable is the Antiquarium, the largest and most lavish Renaissance hall north of the Alps. The window reveals are decorated with 102 views of towns, markets, and palaces in what was then the Duchy of Bavaria, providing an unique insight into how the country once looked. The Rich Chapel (Reiche Kapelle) was the private place of worship of Duke Maximilian I and his wife, and it was decorated with particular magnificence using colored marble and gilt reliefs. The Ornate Rooms (Reiche Zimmer) meanwhile represent a high point of the court Rococo style, and are works of art in their own right. 

Cuvilliés-Theatre

Visit what is perhaps the most ostentatious and sensually overwhelming building in Munich.

The exceptionally extravagant court theatre was built by Elector Max III Joseph's court architect François Cuvilliés between 1751 and 1755, and was intended to showcase Munich as a home to the arts and the enlightenment. It only survived the destruction of WWII because the elaborately carved tiers of boxes were removed from their original location in the Alte Residenztheater building for safekeeping. It's still used as a theatre today.FYI - to visit the Cuvilliés-Theatre you need to exit the museum and walk around the palace to get onto Residenzstraße and then re-enter the palace and cross through either the Chapel Courtyard or the Imperial Courtyard. 

Odeonsplatz

See the square where Hitler's Beer Hall Putsch came to a bloody end.

The square directly adjacent to the Residence is the Odeonsplatz, which is guarded by the Feldherrnhalle (Field Marshalls' Hall) in honor of the Bavarian army. It was here that Hitler's Beer Hall Putsch in 1923 came to a bloody end in a gun battle with the police. During the Nazi regime, anyone passing the Feldherrnhalle was obliged to give the Nazi salute, which prompted some locals to instead take a side street. The Nazis derogatorily nicknamed it the Shirkers' Alley, but the 'shirkers' are memorialized in a trail of brass cobblestones. Also on the square is the bright yellow Theatinerkirche with its two massive twin towers. It was the personal church of Bavaria's rulers and many of them are interred there.  

11:00 AM - 1:30 PM — Guided Walk Tour of Historic Munich

Munich contains many reminders of a long and varied history but also encompasses the modern features of a strong and vibrant city. The insights of a local help make sense of the traditions, trends, and promises of Bavaria's Capital - sometimes referred to as the city of laptops and lederhosen. On this tour, your guide will show you the highlights of Munich and point out the many hidden treasures.

Afternoon/Late Afternoon — English Gardens

The English Garden is one of Europe's largest parks; in fact, it is larger than New York's Central Park. While it is called the "English Garden" after the style of the park, it was actually designed by an American-Englishman and is now a symbol of the very Bavarian city of Munich. The park is a perfect place to escape the city for a long stroll, where you can enjoy the natural scenery and the people watching.

Chinese Tower

Enjoy some Bavarian brews with the locals in Munich's second largest beer garden.

Located in the middle of the English Gardens, this beer garden (7,000 seats) is located beneath the wooden Chinese Tower. The 25 meter high (75 feet) pagoda was built in 1789 during a pan-European craze for all things East Asian. The food stalls around the pagoda offer traditional beer garden food such as Steckerlfisch (grilled fish on a stick), Hendl (roasted chicken) and Schweinshaxn (roasted pork knuckle). The beer served is Hofbräu and a Maß Hell (lager).

Eisbachwelle

Watch surfers catch some waves in the middle of the city.

At the extreme southern end of the park you can find one of the more unusual and entertaining pastimes enjoyed by the locals - surfing on the man-made Eisbach river. There is a standing wave produced by the water pumping mechanism and surfers line up along the bank taking turns entering the water with their boards. After a minute or so, successful surfers will voluntarily drop out, returning to the end of the line allowing the next person in line an opportunity. The water is cold and shallow (sometimes only 40 cm deep), making it suitable only for experienced surfers.

Late Afternoon/Early Evening — Evening Concert

Munich, as the capital of Bavaria and the third largest city in Germany, is one of the country's leading locations for classical concerts and opera. Classical music lovers can enjoy a wide range of international soloists, conductors, chamber ensembles, and top orchestras, including its own world-class Munich Philharmonic, which attracts top musicians from all over the world. With performance venues such as the National Theater and Cuvilliés Theater, a concert in Munich can be as much a feast for the eyes as for the ears.

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Day 2

Munich

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Day 3

Munich to Nuremberg

Day 3

Munich to Nuremberg

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Early Morning/Morning

Nymphenburg Palace

Only a short tram ride from Munich's city center, you'll find a lovely palace scenically situated amidst a large park. Created as the summer residence of the Bavarian electors, the size, and dimension of the grounds, designed by a student of the Palace of Versailles' landscape designer, is astounding. The main palace building consists of a large villa and two wings of creaking parquet floors and sumptuous period rooms. The palace managed to survive the carpet bombing of the Second World War that destroyed around 80% of the inner city.

Nymphenburg Palace

Early Morning/Morning — Nymphenburg Palace

Only a short tram ride from Munich's city center, you'll find a lovely palace scenically situated amidst a large park. Created as the summer residence of the Bavarian electors, the size, and dimension of the grounds, designed by a student of the Palace of Versailles' landscape designer, is astounding. The main palace building consists of a large villa and two wings of creaking parquet floors and sumptuous period rooms. The palace managed to survive the carpet bombing of the Second World War that destroyed around 80% of the inner city.

Marstallmuseum

Stare up close at the splendid and ostentatious carriages built for Bavaria's rulers.

Also housed in the main building is the Marstallmuseum, displaying royal coaches and riding gear dripping with gild and golden ornamentation, including King Ludwig II's outrageously fairy tale–like rococo sleigh, ingeniously fitted with oil lamps for his impromptu nocturnal outings. Upstairs is the world's largest collection of porcelain made by the famous Nymphenburger Manufaktur. Also known as the Sammlung Bäuml, it presents the entire product palette from the company's founding in 1747 until 1930.

Botanical Garden

Visit M unich's large Botanical Gardens just north of the Nymphenburg Palace.

There are over 52 acres in the gardens, included greenhouses, a lake, a fountain, and houses dedicated to Africa and Madagascar, Mexico, palms and cactuses, and other themes.

Gallery of Beauties

Stare into the eyes of King Ludwig I's mistresses.

One of the high points of the magnificent palace is the Schönheitengalerie, or the Gallery of Beauties, featuring 38 portraits of attractive females admired by King Ludwig I, including some of his mistresses, many with fascinating stories of their own related via the audio guide. Be sure to check out the story of Ludwig's longstanding infamous mistress, the Irish dancer Lola Montez, over whom Ludwig lost his crown.

Nymphenburg Garden

Escape to the favorite natural retreat of locals.

The sprawling park behind Nymphenburg Palace is a favorite spot with Munich residents and visitors alike. It started out as an Italian garden and was later redesigned in the French style, but in the 19th century most of the park was transformed into the more natural English style. It is embellished with a number of water features, including a large lake, a cascade and a 1.5 mile-long canal - a great venue for ice skating and ice curling when it freezes over in winter.

12:55 PM — Transfer to Rail Station

Most trains depart from Müchen Hbf station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option. If staying at a hotel, they can order a reliable taxi. Some private transfers will even help with your bags. Uber is also available for those with the app.

13:54 - 15:02 — Rail to Nuremberg

The short but scenic train route from Munich to Nuremberg will take you north through the charming Bavarian countryside, as well as the town of Dachau where the first Nazi concentration camp was infamously located, and the Audi-producing industrial city of Ingolstadt.

3:02 PM — Transfer from Rail Station

Most trains arrive in Nürnberg Hbf station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance (many are located very nearby). Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option, and the station is the public transport hub of the city, meaning you can easily connect to anywhere in the city. Uber is not yet available in Nuremberg, but taxis are available at all rail stations and are generally honest. Some private transfers even meet you directly on the platform to help with bags.

Late Afternoon/Early Evening — Lorenz Old Town

The Old Town to the south of the Pegnitz River is known as the Lorenz Old Town, after the magnificent medieval Church of St. Lorenz. Like the Sebald Old Town to the north, it was also rebuilt after being nearly completely destroyed in Allied air raids in January 1945. While it doesn’t have quite the old world charm found on the other side of the river, it makes up for this with liveliness and activity. This is the true heart of the city for locals, as it is filled with shopping, restaurants, pubs, and other attractions.

Königstraße and Karolinenstraße

Bratwurst and Pretzels and Gingerbread, oh my! And plenty of shopping and coffee drinking too!

Two large pedestrian streets intersect in front of the Lorenzkirche; the Karolinenstraße (Emperor Charles’ Street) and the Königstraße (King’s Street). Lined by shopping and sidewalk cafes, these are Nuremberg’s best spots for people watching. It's also the perfect place to score some of Nuremberg's delicious gingerbread (Lebkuchen). Legend says gingerbread was first created for a local baker’s daughter 600 years ago. You will never want to go back to store-bought gingerbread. Lovers of bratwurst will also be in paradise on Karolinenstraße, as every few steps a different stand is grilling up bratwurst. Nuremberg’s style of making bratwurst is so unique that the EU bestowed upon it the special designation of "Protected Geographical Indication" (similar to how only sparkling wine from Champagne can be called champagne). There’s even a Nuremberg Sausage Protection Society to guard the quality of the city’s fabled wurst. Soft, salty pretzels are another wonder of Nuremberg that you'll find here. It’s not just the pretzel, but what goes in it. Pretzel sandwiches are slathered in butter, mustard, cream cheese, etc., and filled with salami, salmon, and other treats.

Handwerkerhof

Shop for hand-made artisan crafts in a market with a medieval atmosphere.

In the courtyard of the Frauentor, which is the main gate tower on the south side of the Old Town just across from the main rail station, you will discover an enchanting cluster of shops and restaurants known as the Handwerkerhof (Craftsman Courtyard). While a bit pricey, it offers a great selection of handmade artisanal goods, such as porcelain, wooden toys, clothing, artwork, and other goods, as well as traditional restaurants. Even if you don’t feel like buying anything, it is still worth checking out the village-like medieval atmosphere.

German National Museum

Get lost for hours in the largest museum of German art and culture.

The collection includes items dating as far back as three millennia ago and is especially rich in items from the medieval and Renaissance eras. A highlight is the Behaim globe, which was created in 1491, and so naturally is missing the New World. There is an extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, and other artwork stretching into modern times, as well as applied arts, such as toys, which help to show how people once lived. A visit is a must for lovers of art and history.

Pegnitz River

Linger on Nuremberg's bridges to discover the city at its most delightful.

The Pegnitz River isn’t a wide expanse or a rushing torrent, but rather a petite river crowded with buildings on either side of its banks, and crisscrossed by a succession of charming small bridges. If you want to know Nuremberg intimately, make a point to walk its bridges. At the western edge of the Old Town, you’ll find the Kettensteg, or Chain Bridge, a narrow pedestrian bridge dating back to 1824. The Henkersteg, or Hangman’s Bridge, crosses a pleasant little island once site to flea markets. This covered bridge is probably city’s most charming, yet hides a sinister history, as the town executioner's residence was built onto the bridge. From the wide Museumsbrücke you can take in the view of the medieval Holy Ghost Hospital, resting on arched foundations that rise above the river waters. Beyond the eastern end of the Old Town, you’ll find a lovely forested park where the Pegnitz breaks into a network of small and clear waterways.

Church of St. Lorenz

Step inside one of the most beautiful and important Lutheran churches in all of Germany.

Constructed around 1400, the church is exceptional for a Protestant church due to the wealth of beautiful sculptures, altars, and other art within the church. Cities and states that became Protestant during the Reformation usually stripped their churches of many of their medieval treasures. The burghers of Nuremberg, however, insisted that they remain as a symbol of civic pride. During World War II everything that was removable was hidden in beer cellars beneath the city, and thus they survived even though the church itself was severely damaged. Included amongst the art are several works by Veit Stoß, one of the Renaissance Germany’s greatest sculptors and a sometime resident of Nuremberg. Be sure to check out his so-called “Angel’s Greeting”, a candelabrum showing the Virgin Mary and Archangel Gabriel, suspended in the middle of the church. You can also find several examples of outstanding stained glass work.

Marriage Carousel fountain

Honeymooners may want to skip this controversial fountain.

The Karolinenstraße (Charles Street) is enlivened by statuary and fountains, including the Marriage Carousel fountain (Ehekarussell). Erected in 1984, it shows the artist’s less than rosy picture of marriage. The fountain is located at the end of the Karolinenstraße, just below the 13th century White Tower, which once served as a gateway into the city.

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Day 3

Munich to Nuremberg

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Day 4

Nuremberg

Day 4

Nuremberg

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Early Morning to Afternoon

Rothenburg

Massive stone walls studded with 42 towers; half-timbered colorful houses with red-tiled roofs; cobblestone streets and flower-filled window boxes: this is Rothenburg ob der Tauber, one of the most fairy-tale towns in all of Europe, and the most popular stop on Germany's famous "Romantic Road". This little slice of storybook heaven is one of the most photographed towns in Europe, with thousands of visitors from all over the world coming to experience its magical atmosphere. If traveling by train, it is located only a little more than an hour from Nuremberg, although you will need to make two connections on the journey.

Rothenburg

Early Morning to Afternoon — Rothenburg

Massive stone walls studded with 42 towers; half-timbered colorful houses with red-tiled roofs; cobblestone streets and flower-filled window boxes: this is Rothenburg ob der Tauber, one of the most fairy-tale towns in all of Europe, and the most popular stop on Germany's famous "Romantic Road". This little slice of storybook heaven is one of the most photographed towns in Europe, with thousands of visitors from all over the world coming to experience its magical atmosphere. If traveling by train, it is located only a little more than an hour from Nuremberg, although you will need to make two connections on the journey.

Rothenburg Market Square

Stop for a coffee or beer and enjoy the ambience in this lovely square.

The Market Square and Old Town Hall, surrounded by splendid patrician houses, is where all the action takes places and where you will find the majority of the Christmas Stalls during Advent. The white Ratstrinkstube building to the right of the town hall features a red clock, where every hour between 10 am and 10 pm clockwork figures entertain visitors below. For one of the best view of Rothenburg, head up the Town Hall Tower. As one of the tallest towers in the Rothenburg, it was an important part of the historical city’s defense. The main purpose of the tower was to watch for fires, providing a quick and easy way to communicate with the city wall towers. We recommend only the physically fit attempt to conquer its 222 steps and steep ladder to the observational gallery.

Plönlein (Little Square)

See one of the most photographed spots in Europe with your own eyes.

You will surely recognize this small square known as the “Plönlein” (Little Square). It's narrow half-timbered building with a small fountain in front, framed by the Kobolzeller tower is one of the most famous postcard images of Rothenburg ob der Tauber. In the summer, hordes of tourists come to this spot to take the same obligatory photo.

Imperial Town Museum

Take a peek at what may be Germany's oldest kitchen and learn a bit of local lore and history.

Since 1936, the Imperial Town Museum located on Klosterhof street, has been housed in the former Dominican convent, which was dissolved in 1544. Visit the museum for an interesting experience of Rothenburg’s history and an impressive array of cultural artifacts and beautiful artwork. You can also visit the kitchen, which is said to date back to the late 1200s and is considered to be one of the oldest kitchens in Germany.

Rothenburg City Wall

Peer over the red rooftops of Rothenburg as you walk its centuries-old battlements.

A must do while visiting Rothenburg is to take an hour or so to walk the historical walls around part of the Old Town. Stretching 2.5 miles (roughly 4km) around Rothenburg and guarded by 70 towers, walking around the covered ramparts of the Medieval City Wall is a magical experience. For those who wish to do a short section of the wall, you can start from the Rödertor Gateway which you may have passed through on entering the Old Town. For those adventurous travelers who wish to walk the whole wall, you can start from the Spitaltor, a massive round gatehouse located towards the south of the town, and continue to the final walkable gate, the Klingentor, located towards the north of the town. To start your walk, you simply need to climb the steep steps at the gate you wish to start. For those who are interested, a guided city wall tour is offered from the tourist information point next to the Market Square.

Christmas Store & German Christmas Museum

Experience a traditional German Christmas, regardless of when you visit.

The famous Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas decorations brand moved their flagship store in Rothenburg in 1977, and ever since, the town has been known for its unique Christmas Village and Museum. Next door to the store you will discover the German Christmas Museum. Covering over 2500 square foot, the museum covers hundreds of years of Christmas history and traditions in Germany. 

Afternoon/Late Afternoon — Christmas Markets

Every year, Germany's most famous Christmas Market takes place right in the middle of Nuremberg, on the Hauptmarkt, the central square in the Old Town. A visit is especially enchanting in the evening, when the lights, sounds, and smells of market create a special and festive atmosphere. Nuremberg’s Christmas Market dates back to the beginning of the 17th Century, making it one of Germany’s oldest Christmas Markets. During the Christmas period, Nuremberg is completely transformed as the festively decorated market square fills with over 150 stalls selling traditional handmade wooden goods, toys, festive treats and holiday gifts. Local gifts include the Nuremberg spicy gingerbread, candles and the ‘Nuremberg Plum People’, little figures made from prunes. For families, the nearby Hans Sachs Square offers a Christmas Market for children, offering numerous opportunities for playing, riding the carousel, listening to fairy tales and getting in the Christmas spirit. There are other numerous smaller markets dotted around the city as well. For the grownups, a hot mulled wine will warm you again after your stroll around the Christmas Market. It comes along in a beautiful mug, which is designed especially for the market every year.

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Day 4

Nuremberg

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Day 5

Nuremberg to Dresden

Day 5

Nuremberg to Dresden

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Early Morning/Morning

Alststadt & Castle

With its abundance of half-timbered homes, Gothic churches, and a dramatic castle, Nuremberg was once an ideal representative of Germany’s architectural inheritance. While most of its Old Town was destroyed in World War II, much of it was rebuilt to reflect this pre-war appearance. The beauty and vibrancy of the historic city can still be easily imagined as you shop on the Market Square or explore the narrow lanes of the Old Town, which are lined by brightly painted and steeply gabled half-timbered burgher houses. The impressive castle overlooking the city is also a must see when visiting the Sebalder Altstadt.

Alststadt & Castle

Early Morning/Morning — Alststadt & Castle

With its abundance of half-timbered homes, Gothic churches, and a dramatic castle, Nuremberg was once an ideal representative of Germany’s architectural inheritance. While most of its Old Town was destroyed in World War II, much of it was rebuilt to reflect this pre-war appearance. The beauty and vibrancy of the historic city can still be easily imagined as you shop on the Market Square or explore the narrow lanes of the Old Town, which are lined by brightly painted and steeply gabled half-timbered burgher houses. The impressive castle overlooking the city is also a must see when visiting the Sebalder Altstadt.

Market Square

Shop for something tasty and check out Nuremberg's greatest architectural gems on the Market Square.

The Market Square, or Hauptmarkt, is the ideal point to start exploring the Sebald Old Town. Its two most notable features, the magnificent Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady) and Schöner Brunnen were built in the 14th century. For many visitors, the colorful fountain is the most memorable site in Nuremberg, with its forty statues depicting figures from the Bible, mythology, and German history. The city’s famous Christmas Market is launched from the Frauenkirche’s balcony each year, and the clock on its gable performs a daily show at noon, as a procession of noblemen pays homage to the seated Emperor Charles IV. The interior of the church is also worth a visit, with its collection of altars and artwork taken from nearby monasteries. The square is also an open-air market for vendors of produce, meats, baked goods, & gifts.

Historic Beer Cellars (Felsangänge)

Take a guided tour within the labyrinthine underground rock passages where Nuremberg's burghers stored their beer.

Another highlight of the Old Town are the chilly beer cellars below it. Bring a sweater or jacket, as the temperature averages about 46° F / 8° C. Carved through sandstone bedrock, the cellars form an interconnected maze that served as storage for ripening beer. During World War II they also provided a refuge from Allied bombing raids and saved thousands of lives with their good ventilation.

Albrecht Dürer House Visitor

Tour the well-preserved Gothic home of the famed Renaissance artist Albrecht Dürer.

The former residence of the artist is interesting on several levels. The well-preserved interiors host a museum illustrate how a well-off family in the Renaissance lived, and explains how Dürer worked from his home. It does not hold any of his original paintings, nor of his woodcut prints. However, it illustrates the influence Dürer had in making art accessible to the masses through his revolutionary use of woodcuts in the then new era of the printing press. Very worthwhile.

Weißgerbergasse

Take a stroll down Nuremberg’s most charming street.

Beautifully painted half-timbered houses line the street, each with some interesting architectural detail to discover. Most of the houses are filled with restaurants, shops, galleries, and pubs, so you will certainly find a reason to linger.

Imperial Castle

Make the gentle climb up to this 11th-century castle to enjoy a beautiful view of Nuremberg's old town.

The castle is open for tours and is one of Nuremberg's top attractions. The castle’s history stretches back to the early Middle Ages when it began as a simple wooden fort on the hilltop. It grew increasingly more intricate and impressive over the centuries. While it was officially a castle of the Holy Roman Emperor, it was controlled by local noblemen known as Burgraves, creating a never-ending source of conflict with the independent-minded city just below the castle. The city finally gained control of the castle from the Emperor in 1422, shortly after having burned much of it down. The castle still remained an imperial castle, however, and would host the Emperors during their frequent visits to the city.

3:20 PM — Transfer to Rail Station

Most trains depart from Nürnberg Hbf station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option, and you can easily reach the station from almost anywhere in the city, as it is the public transport hub. Uber is not yet available in Nuremberg, but if staying at a hotel, they can order a reliable taxi. Some private transfers will even help with your bags.

16:04 - 18:10, 18:31 - 19:40 — Train to Dresden

Your 3.5-hour rail journey to Dresden will pass through the beautiful countryside of the German regions of Franconia, Thuringia, and Saxony, crossing the former border between East and West Germany. You will likely connect trains in the city of Leipzig.

7:40 PM — Transfer from Rail Station

Most trains arrive in Dresden hbf (i.e. hauptbahnhof, main station) station, the largest station in the city. Some trains also stop at Dresden-Neustadt station, which if you are staying on the north side of the river, may be a more convenient place to get off. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option. Taxis are available at all rail stations and are generally honest, so if you prefer the convenience of not carrying your bags on public transport, they are an option. Some private transfers even meet you directly on the platform to help with bags.

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Day 5

Nuremberg to Dresden

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Day 6

Dresden

Day 6

Dresden

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9:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Old Town Walking Tour

During this 2 hour tour you will discover the most impressive sights of Dresden Old Town, like the world famous Zwinger Palace, the Semper Opera House, the Cathedral or the Royal Palace. Our guide will give you all the historic background. You will also have a chance to see the reconstructed Frauenkirche, a symbol of reconciliation and peace in the world, a real pride of inhabitants of Dresden.

Old Town Walking Tour

9:00 AM - 11:30 AM — Old Town Walking Tour

During this 2 hour tour you will discover the most impressive sights of Dresden Old Town, like the world famous Zwinger Palace, the Semper Opera House, the Cathedral or the Royal Palace. Our guide will give you all the historic background. You will also have a chance to see the reconstructed Frauenkirche, a symbol of reconciliation and peace in the world, a real pride of inhabitants of Dresden.

Zwinger Palace

See why the palace and its gardens were considered beautiful enough to hold some of Germany's most precious artworks.

There is much to see in the Zwinger besides the Old Masters' Gallery. The palace is one of the most admired Baroque structures in all of Germany, if not in Europe, so the architecture and gardens are attractions in themselves. There is also a porcelain collection and Royal Cabinet of Mathematical and Physical Instruments. The palace was originally built in 1709 as an orangery and garden. However, its beautifully adorned galleries and pavilions were intended to eventually serve as a forecourt for a much larger palace, which would be a testament to the power and greatness of Saxony's then ruler, Augustus the Strong. After his death that plan was dropped, and it would not be until the 19th century that the palace would find a suitable role to live up to its grandness, when it was transformed into a museum complex.

Mid-Day — Dresden Christmas Market

Dresden is home to Germany's oldest, and arguably most beautiful Christmas Market. During the Christmas season, the entire city is a wild array of lights, carols, and festivities. You can stroll the lively streets while drinking local mulled wine, tasting the seasonal delicacies and enjoying the festive atmosphere. The first one-day Christmas Market was held in 1434, and today the Dresdener Striezelmarkt hosts over 250 stalls, attracts three million visitors a year and displays the world's largest usable Christmas arch. The focal point of this market is the Spruce. A 20-meter high wooden structure is brought to the city from the Tharandt woods, about 9 miles from Dresden, and is covered in lights and decorations.

Afternoon/Late Afternoon — Old Town

Picturesquely located on a bend of the Elbe River, Dresden is the capital of the German federal state of Saxony and was long the royal residence for the Kings of Saxony. They transformed their home over the centuries into a splendid architectural jewel. Because of its fascinating baroque and rococo city center, as well as its art collections, Dresden was often called the “Florence on the Elbe”.  But Dresden also became a major industrial center, making it a target in WWII. The entire city center was destroyed in a fire-bombing raid, and over 20,000 inhabitants died in the flames and rubble. After the war, the city’s former beauty was gradually reconstructed and Dresden is now again a leading center of art, culture and classical music. During your visit, you will have the opportunity to admire restored architectural gems, impressive museums, and rich art collections.

Frauenkirche

Take the elevator to peer into the breathtaking dome of Dresden's most beautiful and famous church, and to look out upon surrounding city.

This outstanding baroque Lutheran church was completely rebuilt after Germany’s reunification from the rubble that had deliberately been left on site as a reminder of the war. Go inside to admire its impressive interior or take an elevator to get an unforgettable view of the cupola, as well as the Old Town and the Elbe River. The church was built both as a symbol of Protestant self-assertion and Dresden's municipal wealth, and was so magnificent that it soon became a fixture on the European grand tour.

Albertinum

Visit the palatial Albertinum and experience an outstanding collection of 19th and 20th century art.

The palatial Albertinum is a museum housing works by Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, and Edgar Degas, as well as a Sculpture Collection - the main hall is worth a look without even purchasing a ticket and viewing the artworks on display. The Galerie Neue Meister spans the genres from the Romantics like Caspar David Friedrich to Modernists like Otto Dix, whose triptych, War, is a searing indictment of his time in the trenches during WWI. 

Residenzschloss (Dresden Castle)

Admire priceless treasures and gobsmacking architecture as you wander the corridors of this palace turned museum.

Flanked by statues of muscled warriors reflecting the might of Dresden's rulers, the Residenzschloss (or Royal Palace) is now a large museum complex housing Europe’s largest collection of treasures (the Green Vault) as well as imposing collections of coins, works on paper, weapons, and Ottoman art. Destroyed in WWII, it was not until 1985 that the communist regime finally began reconstruction and returned the famed Grünes Gewölbe (Green Vault) to the palace. It's a regular Ali Baba's cave of priceless silver, gold, diamond, ivory and mother-of-pearl craftsmanship that is one of the most outstanding treasuries on the planet.

Semperoper

Tour one of Europe's most lavish opera houses.

Originally built in 1841, the hall was rebuilt by the original architect after a fire in 1869. Having been given a second chance, he did an even better job. Unfortunately, it had to rebuilt again after WWII, however it is now restored in all its glory, and with more modern stage equipment to boot. It's home to the Saxon State Orchestra, one of the world’s oldest orchestras. It was also the venue of Wagner premieres for Tannhäuser, Rienzi and The Flying Dutchman, making the Semper a household name. You can admire the beauty of its reconstructed interior during an English speaking guided tour, which starts daily at 3pm. As there is only one daily English tour, we recommend purchasing tickets in advance.

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Day 6

Dresden

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Day 7

Dresden to Berlin

Day 7

Dresden to Berlin

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Morning

Neustadt

Completely different to Altstadt in feel and ambiance, Neustadt on the right bank of the River Elbe is far less touristed and is the favorite stomping ground of Dresdener youth thanks to its proliferation of cheaper restaurants, cafes, and pubs. Neustadt means New Town, but its history stretches back centuries and it's only new in comparison to the Old Town on the opposite side of the river. Less damaged than the Altstadt in the firestorm bombing raid of February 1945, the riverbank is populated with exquisitely constructed palaces, administrative buildings, and museums, while Königstraße still hosts an array of 18th-century Baroque townhouses. The more modern Hauptstraße leads you to the fascinating DDR World Museum depicting life under the former communist regime. Strolling along the river and enjoying the parks and statuary along the banks is a great way to see the locals relaxing.

Neustadt

Morning — Neustadt

Completely different to Altstadt in feel and ambiance, Neustadt on the right bank of the River Elbe is far less touristed and is the favorite stomping ground of Dresdener youth thanks to its proliferation of cheaper restaurants, cafes, and pubs. Neustadt means New Town, but its history stretches back centuries and it's only new in comparison to the Old Town on the opposite side of the river. Less damaged than the Altstadt in the firestorm bombing raid of February 1945, the riverbank is populated with exquisitely constructed palaces, administrative buildings, and museums, while Königstraße still hosts an array of 18th-century Baroque townhouses. The more modern Hauptstraße leads you to the fascinating DDR World Museum depicting life under the former communist regime. Strolling along the river and enjoying the parks and statuary along the banks is a great way to see the locals relaxing.

Goldener Reiter

See a gold-covered statue of the man who re-made Dresden to advertise his greatness.

Golden Rider statue of Augustus the Strong. Famed statue covered in gold leaf of King August II dressed as a Roman Caesar & riding a horse.

1:55 PM — Transfer to Rail Station

Most trains depart from Dresden hbf (i.e. hauptbahnhof, main station) station, the largest station in the city, although many trains make a stop at Dresden-Neustadt station. If you are staying on the north side of the river, this may be a more convenient departure point for you. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option. If staying at a hotel, they can order a reliable taxi. Some private transfers will even help with your bags.

14:55 - 16:42 — Rail Journey to Berlin

Your scenic journey to Berlin should take about two hours. You will first travel through the pleasant countryside of the state of Saxony, of which Dresden is the capital. Then you will journey across the German state of Brandenburg, which is blanketed by thick pine forests, before reaching Berlin.

4:42 PM — Transfer from Rail Station

Most trains arrive in Berlin Hbf station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. The station is well connected by public transport to all of central Berlin; U-Bahn, S-Bahn, and bus all service the station. This means public transport is often the fastest and easiest way of reaching the station. Berlin taxis are generally reliable and honest, so if you prefer the convenience of not carrying your bags on public transport, they are a good option. Uber is also a good option, and some private transfers even meet you directly on the platform to help with bags.

Early Evening/Evening — Courtyards of Berlin

With booming 19th-century population growth, nearly every unoccupied space in Berlin was filled by tenement buildings surrounding small courtyards. The Spandauer Vorstadt neighborhood possesses some of Berlin’s most beautiful courtyards, the Hackesche Höfe, as well as other courtyards which better recall the crowded conditions of industrial Berlin. Here you can discover the partially reconstructed New Synagogue, the former site of the Jewish cemetery, and many hidden reminders of a once vibrant community.

Hackesche Höfe

Stop for a drink or go shopping within Berlin’s most beautiful courtyards.

These nine courtyards are classic examples of Art Deco. Built in 1905-1907 to house businesses, flats and places of entertainment, Hackesche Höfe was conceived of as an antidote to the dowdy and overcrowded courtyards of working-class Berlin. They are elaborately decorated with blue mosaic tiles and other artistic finishes, but nevertheless preserve a layout that was highly typical of much of pre-war Berlin.

Haus Schwarzenberg

Explore a traditional Berlin alleyway courtyard which harbours a trio of small museums relating to the Jewish experience during WWII.

The courtyard's crumbling and grafittied facades give visitors a feel for Berlin tenement life during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Among the museums is the fascinating Museum Blindenwerkstatt Otto Wendt (free; open 10am-8pm daily). It is located in the former rooms of a broom and brush factory run by one Otto Wendt, whose employees were mainly deaf, blind and Jewish. He managed to protect his workers from the concentration camps by having the factory declared essential to the war effort.  

New Synagogue

Visit one of the most important legacies of Berlin's pre-Holocaust Jewish community.

The partially reconstructed synagogue was damaged on Kristallnacht, an anti-Jewish Nazi pogrom. It was not completely destroyed thanks to the intervention of the local police chief. Its ultimate destruction was left to Allied bombers and reconstruction didn’t begin until the late 1980s. While large parts remain unreconstructed, it is still possible to visit the interior.

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Day 7

Dresden to Berlin

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Day 8

Berlin

Day 8

Berlin

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9:30 AM - 12:00 PM

Guided Walking Tour of Berlin

On this 3 hour tour, your guide will show you the highlights of Berlin and help you understand what makes this city so unique. Sites visited will include the boulevard Unter den Linden, the Gendarmenmarkt, Check Point Charlie, remnants of the Berlin Wall, Potsdamer Platz, the Holocaust Memorial, the Brandenburg Gate, and the Reichstag.

Guided Walking Tour of Berlin

9:30 AM - 12:00 PM — Guided Walking Tour of Berlin

On this 3 hour tour, your guide will show you the highlights of Berlin and help you understand what makes this city so unique. Sites visited will include the boulevard Unter den Linden, the Gendarmenmarkt, Check Point Charlie, remnants of the Berlin Wall, Potsdamer Platz, the Holocaust Memorial, the Brandenburg Gate, and the Reichstag.

Brandenburg Gate

Quadriga. Hey, There's a Word to Know When Learning About this Historic Gate

The Brandenburg Gate was built as a symbol of peace, perverted into a symbol of power by the Nazis, and became a symbol of division during the Cold War. Now, however, it is a symbol of reunification. Completed in 1791, it was topped by the quadriga, a chariot drawn by four horses driven by the goddess of peace. Napoleon seized the quadriga as a spoil of war, but after his defeat, it was returned to the city and met by cheering crowds along the way, transforming the goddess of peace into a goddess of victory, holding a  Germanic cross.

Reichstag

Make your way to the top of the dome enjoying amazing views and looking down at debating members of the German Parliament below.

Officially, the Reichstag is actually the Bundestag, which means the federal parliament. The Reichstag was reduced to a ruined shell by arson in 1933 and by World War II fighting, but it was rebuilt with a striking egg-shaped glass dome. Visitors are given a free audio guide that discusses the building’s history and architecture, while also orientating you to the sites of Berlin. It is an excellent introduction to the city. Note that it is usually necessary to book well in advance!

Mid-Day/Afternoon — Iconic Berlin

Many of Berlin’s most iconic symbols are found within a short walk of each other. Most famous of all is the Brandenburg Gate. First built as a symbol of peace, it became a symbol of division during the Cold War. A few steps away stands the Reichstag, which was destroyed in the climax of World War II but which has been beautifully rebuilt with a glass dome. Meanwhile, the modernistic Sony Center also symbolizes a revitalized and rebuilt Berlin. Also close by is the sobering Holocaust Memorial, with its more than 2700 concrete slabs creating an ominous impression of loss. Just beyond it is another reminder of Germany's darkest period - the site of Hitler's bunker during the seige of Berlin.

Brandenburg Gate

Quadriga. Hey, There's a Word to Know When Learning About this Historic Gate

The Brandenburg Gate was built as a symbol of peace, perverted into a symbol of power by the Nazis, and became a symbol of division during the Cold War. Now, however, it is a symbol of reunification. Completed in 1791, it was topped by the quadriga, a chariot drawn by four horses driven by the goddess of peace. Napoleon seized the quadriga as a spoil of war, but after his defeat, it was returned to the city and met by cheering crowds along the way, transforming the goddess of peace into a goddess of victory, holding a  Germanic cross.

Reichstag

Make your way to the top of the dome enjoying amazing views and looking down at debating members of the German Parliament below.

Officially, the Reichstag is actually the Bundestag, which means the federal parliament. The Reichstag was reduced to a ruined shell by arson in 1933 and by World War II fighting, but it was rebuilt with a striking egg-shaped glass dome. Visitors are given a free audio guide that discusses the building’s history and architecture, while also orientating you to the sites of Berlin. It is an excellent introduction to the city. Note that it is usually necessary to book well in advance!

Sony Center

Check out the futuristic and ground-breaking Sony Center at Potsdamer Platz.

The visually dramatic and future-aesthetic Sony Center is a complex of entertainment, shopping, and office buildings surrounding a plaza canopied by a tentlike glass roof with supporting beams radiating out like bicycle spokes. It also integrates rare relics from Potsdamer Platz's prewar era, such as the opulent Kaisersaal – a fragment of the luxurious pre-war Esplanade Hotel.

Holocaust Memorial

Wander amongst 2,711 columns forming a vast mazelike Holocaust memorial.

The Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe. It consists of a 19,000 square meter site with over 2700 concrete slabs that grow larger and more ominous as you approach the center of the monument. Beneath the monument lies an information center. 

Afternoon to Early Evening — Museum Island

This island in the River Spree is home to five world-renowned museums, which could easily fill up a whole trip just by themselves. The island is covered in trees and green lawns, while the classically-inspired architecture of the museums can be enjoyed without even stepping inside. Unfortunately, the biggest star of the island, the Pergamon Museum, with its wholly reconstructed ancient buildings, is closed until 2026 for renovations. However, you can still visit a massive 360-panorama depicting the ancient city of Pergamon, and there's still more museums to visit than you could possibly fit in. Also to be found on and around Museum Island are the majestic Berliner Dom cathedral and the huge Berlin Palace.

Pergamonmuseum

Relive the past in one of the world's premier museums of archealogy and ancient art. You can step into enormous ancient structures, wholly reconstructed.

The museum is a jaw-dropping feast of classical sculpture and monumental architecture from Greece, Rome, Babylon and the Middle East divided into three parts. Highlights include the radiant-blue Ishtar Gate from Babylon, the Roman Market Gate of Miletus and the Caliph's Palace of Mshatta.

Neues Museum

Stare into the eyes of the famed Egyptian queen Nefertiti and see other ancient artwork and archeological artifacts.

The New Museum was opened in 1859 to relieve pressure on the over-crowded Old Museum. The three exhibition floors were decorated by leading Classical painters, with a focal point being a grand staircase winding up all three stories. Exhibits include the archaeological collections of the Egyptian Museum and Papyrus Collection, the Museum of Pre- and Early History, and the Collection of Classical Antiquities. The 3300-year-old bust of Egyptian Queen Nefertiti is the showstopper.

Berliner Dom

Climb 270 steps to the top of this massive 19th century cathedral for a unique panoramic view of the city.

Berlin Cathedral, nestled on Museum Island, epitomizes German neo-Renaissance grandeur with its striking dome. Built from 1894 to 1905 and restored post-World War II, its lavish interior, stained glass, and notable pipe organ draw visitors. Beyond a place of worship, it houses the former imperial ruling family's, the Hohenzollern, crypt, revealing the dynastic past of Germany.

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Day 8

Berlin

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Day 9

Berlin

Day 9

Berlin

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Early Morning/Morning

City West

In the 1920's the elegant, tree-line boulevard known as the Kurfürstendamm was the center of Berlin's nightlife and leisure scene, attracting writers, film stars, and artists. WWII left it in ruins, and today at the end of the boulevard you'll discover a chilling reminder of that destruction: the purposefully unrecontructed remains of the Memorial Church. During the Cold War, the Kurfürstendamm and its surroundings were central to West Berlin's revitalized identity. This was perhaps best symbolized by the famous KaDeWe, the gigantic department store which served as a symbol of market capitalism lodged in the heart of the Iron Curtain.

City West

Early Morning/Morning — City West

In the 1920's the elegant, tree-line boulevard known as the Kurfürstendamm was the center of Berlin's nightlife and leisure scene, attracting writers, film stars, and artists. WWII left it in ruins, and today at the end of the boulevard you'll discover a chilling reminder of that destruction: the purposefully unrecontructed remains of the Memorial Church. During the Cold War, the Kurfürstendamm and its surroundings were central to West Berlin's revitalized identity. This was perhaps best symbolized by the famous KaDeWe, the gigantic department store which served as a symbol of market capitalism lodged in the heart of the Iron Curtain.

Memorial Church

Remind yourself of war's destructiveness by visiting the ruins of this church destroyed during WWII.

After its destruction in WWII, the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church was partially rebuilt in modernist style, and partially left in ruins as a powerful reminder of the war. Built-in the 1890s, Kaiser Wilhelm II hoped to inspire the secular proletariat to return to traditional religious values. The neo-Gothic design became ever more colorful as Wilhelm insisted on more bling. The small exhibition inside shows the wartime destruction and a “before and after” model of the city center.

Story of Berlin Museum

Take an interactive crash course in Berlin history. (Re-opening Autumn 2021)

This museum uses reconstructed street scapes, homes, and other interactive exibits to give you good feeling for the atmosphere of Berlin during it's long and often times turbulent history, including during the Nazi and Communist era. You can also tour an underground nuclear shelter.

Berlin Zoo

Visit Germany's Oldest and Best Known Zoo.

Founded in 1844, the Zoologischer Garten Berlin was the first zoo in Germany and features some wonderful animal-inspired architecture as well. The original animals were donated by King Frederick William IV of Prussia, and it now has a collection of around 20,500 animals representing 1,500 different species. The zoo’s aquarium opened in 1913 and now contains one of the largest collections of aquatic life in Europe. 

KaDeWe

Shop in the iconic department store of capitalist West Berlin

Opened in 1907, the Kaufhaus des Westens, or KaDeWe, quickly became a temple of luxury in a rapidly modernising city. It took off again following the German post-war economic miracle and gained new impetus again following German reunification. During Communism, due to it's proximity to East Germany, it became a symbol of the material wealth of the West in comparison to that of countries stuck behind the Iron Curtain.

Morning/Mid-Day — Tiergarten

Once the hunting ground of the Prussian kings, the Tiergarten is Berlin’s most famous and expansive park. It is a wonderful escape from urban stress located in the very center of the city. You will discover beautiful forests, fields, and ponds, all easily reached through an extensive and well maintained network of trails. Some of Berlin's favorite beer gardens are also located in the park.

Victory Column

Climb the historic column for a panoramic view of the city amidst a sea of green trees.

One of Berlin’s most familiar sights, the column commemorates victories over Denmark, Austria, and France during the mid-19th century. These victories enabled the founding of the German Empire in 1871. It was moved to the current location on the express orders of Hitler. 

Café am Neuen See

Take a Break in a Popular Beer Garden Nestled Within the Park.

Even if you don’t feel like stopping for a drink or a meal, it is still worth a quick peek just to experience the atmosphere. The location is absolutely ideal, surrounded by forest and looking over the lake with its many paddle boaters. There's a formal sit-down café on the terrace and a self-service beer garden, where sharing benches is expected and completely normal.

Trödel Markt

Shop within the forest at Berlin’s best flea market.

If you are looking for a unique purchase then this is the place. The market takes place every weekend from 10am-5pm. Discover art, family heirlooms, furniture, clothing, souvenirs, food, and more. 

Mid-Day/Afternoon — Checkpoint Charlie

The best-known Berlin Wall crossing point between East Berlin and West Berlin during the Cold War, Checkpoint Charlie was the main gateway between the two Berlins for most non-Germans. Next to it is the Mauermuseum recounting the history of the Berlin Wall, while a few hundred yards away is the Topography of Terror depicting the history of the Nazi regime. Nearby, the Jewish Museum explores the fascinating history of Germany's Jewish heritage in a striking modern building - uneven floors, empty spaces, and sharp zig-zags reflect its turbulent experience in Germany.

Jewish Museum

Unveil a fascinating story of triumph, tragedy, and also everyday life in Germany's leading Jewish history museum.

The history of Germany’s once-thriving Jewish population and culture is brilliantly detailed behind American architect Daniel Libeskind’s equally brilliant and shimmering titanium-zinc facade.

Trabi Museum

Sit behind the wheel of East Germany's infamously toxic Trabi.

This little museum is devoted to East Germany's iconic product - the Trabant automobile. Here you'll learn to appreciate the “fewer parts means less trouble” principles of the fibreglass car. 

Topography of Terror

Learn about the horrors of Nazism and the security apparatus it used to enforce its will in this documentation center.

The center has free admission. It is located on a site that headquartered Adolf Hitler's elite killers, the SS, the Gestapo secret police and the Reich Main Security Office, making it the main cog in the Nazi security regime. Standing there today in testament to the evil perpetrated during those years is the Topography of Terror, Germany’s most significant museum on the agents of Nazi terror. 

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Day 9

Berlin

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Day 10

Depart Berlin

Day 10

Depart Berlin

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To Be Determined

Airport Transfer by Taxi or Rail

The most affordable and fast way to reach Berlin Brandenburg airport is by train. The Airport Express train takes only 30 minutes and leaves directly from the main station in central Berlin (Berlin Hbf). Regional and S-Bahn trains also depart from other locations in Berlin. Berlin taxis are generally reliable and honest, so you may wish to take a taxi or Uber, although this is more expensive than the train and puts you at the mercy of traffic. You can also arrange a private transfer. If you are picked up about 3 hours before your departure time, you should arrive at the airport with about two hours to spare, depending on traffic. If you are leaving during rush hour, you may want to budget an extra fifteen to thirty minutes.

Airport Transfer by Taxi or Rail

To Be Determined — Airport Transfer by Taxi or Rail

The most affordable and fast way to reach Berlin Brandenburg airport is by train. The Airport Express train takes only 30 minutes and leaves directly from the main station in central Berlin (Berlin Hbf). Regional and S-Bahn trains also depart from other locations in Berlin. Berlin taxis are generally reliable and honest, so you may wish to take a taxi or Uber, although this is more expensive than the train and puts you at the mercy of traffic. You can also arrange a private transfer. If you are picked up about 3 hours before your departure time, you should arrive at the airport with about two hours to spare, depending on traffic. If you are leaving during rush hour, you may want to budget an extra fifteen to thirty minutes.

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Day 10

Depart Berlin

What's Included In German Christmas Market Trip

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Pre-Paid Tours and Activities:

  • Guided Walk Tour of Historic Munich
  • Guided Walking Tour of Old Town
  • Highlights of Berlin Guided Walking Tour
  • City Cards for Berlin and Munich, including discounts to many popular attractions
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Pre-Paid Transportation:

  • 2nd Class Train Tickets from Munich-Nuremberg
  • 2nd Class Train Tickets from Nuremberg to Leipzig
  • 2nd Class Train Tickets from Leipzig to Dresden
  • Train Tickets from Dresden to Berlin
  • Public Transport Tickets for Munich and Berlin
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Accommodation:

  • 2 nights at a hotel of your choice in Munich
  • 2 nights at a hotel of your choice in Nuremberg
  • 2 nights at a hotel of your choice in Dresden
  • 3 nights at a hotel of your choice in Berlin
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Go Real Travel Mobile App:

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Explore cities in more detail

old town square munich germany

Munich

Arriving in Munich, you would be forgiven for thinking you were on the set of a movie about old Bavaria. At the Old Town beer halls, barmaids laced in dirndl dresses serve up frosty Helles lager, as oom-pah music drifts across the Marienplatz square. Men in lederhosen and checked shirts merrily give toasts as they knock glasses, or steins, as they’re known here. They sit at tables laden with wurst sausage and giant pretzels oozing with herby butter. This is Germany’s Germany, a place where folk traditions never stopped, and the revelry doesn’t either. Even when it isn’t Oktoberfest, the town’s notorious beer-drinking celebration, Munich is always happy to show you a good time. Simply cast your eyes around the lavish, gilded banquet hall at the Munich Residenz, the 13th-century Wittelsbach palace. You’ll see Munich has been impressing guests for centuries. Or, swing by the BMW Museum and check out the classic German cars. They even let you sit inside to test out the new models. At the city’s English Gardens, surfers ride waves on one of the park’s rivers. Munich is filled to the brim with this kind of pure-hearted German fun.     

half timbered houses in nuremberg germany

Nuremberg

One of the most authentic, storied German destinations, Nuremberg's picturesque old town, glorious castle, and buzzing Christmas Market makes this city a time-true classic. The ideal gateway to old Bavaria, Nuremberg offers a primer in German history before you embark on the lovely journey through old Bavaria, known as the Romantic Road. Considered the capital of the Holy Roman Empire in the middle ages, Nuremberg would have felt like the center of the world as a procession of kings and emperors passed through its magnificent gates. When the German Renaissance came, Nuremberg was at its heart. Albrecht Dürer, the great German master artist, was born here, and Martin Luther called Nuremberg Germany's 'eyes and ears'. Skip forward a few centuries, and the city took a dark turn, as Nuremberg became a gathering point for the German National Socialists. Slightly outside of town, you can still find the Nazi Party Rallying Grounds, a sobering reminder of the not so distant past. If it all gets too heavy, you can end the day with a glass of rotbier (red beer) and mull it over. Nuremberg is a must-see for anyone who wants to delve into Germany's past. 

Baroque Zwinger Palace in Dresden Germany

Dresden

Nearly every wall and rooftop in Dresden seems to be finished with a flourish. Defined by its ornamental baroque architecture, a power statement of Saxon royalty, Dresden is made all the more miraculous considering the city was leveled by firebombing in WWII. After the war, the city was reconstructed, brick by painstaking brick. Even under East German-Soviet rule, which usually eschewed frivolous design, buildings like the Semper Opera House were pieced back to their former glory. Restoration of the majestic Zwinger Palace and bell domed Church of Our Lady slowly followed, with the Frauenkirche only fully repaired in 2005. Arguably there is no other city in Europe that cherishes its hard-won architecture as much as Dresden. Although it is a compact city, so many of its buildings will stop you in your tracks that architecture fans will easily lose a whole day in the Old Town area. Especially during the winter months, Dresden sparkles with a joyous, uplifting ambiance. The city is recognized as having the best-ever Christmas market in all of Europe. Between the twinkling lights, the scent of hot wine and gingerbread, and the towering Christmas tree, it’s worth going out of your way to see Dresden at this time of year.   

The Television Tower in Berlin at Sunrise

Berlin

Since the fall of its notorious wall, Berlin’s unification has seen it go from strength to strength. No wonder the city feels like it hasn’t stopped partying since the 1990s. There is so much to celebrate here. Fueled by the robust economy, a thriving tech scene, and straight-up German bonhomie, when you step into Berlin you’ll soon be caught up in its spirit.  For all this gusto, Berlin hasn’t forgotten its troubled past. A visit to Berlin is to bear witness to history. Portions of the wall remain intact, and the city’s Jewish Museum offers a detailed, emotional examination of the Holocaust. Inside the reconstructed Reichstag, every attempt has been made to preserve the parliament’s beleaguered history. The buildings' glass dome addition feels less like a triumphal crown and more like a freshly healed battle scar.  Days in Berlin are easily spent wandering from a cafe to the cultural institutions on Museum Island, or over to the Charlottenburg Palace. By night, crowds wander through the booming bars and nightclubs or gaze upon the floodlit Brandenburg Gate and Victory Column monuments. An international city that can offer something to everyone, Berlin is an unmissable stop on your German journey.  

winter in salzburg germany

Salzburg

You've probably heard this before— the city of Salzburg is straight out of a fairytale. Nestled in the mountains, this romantic city's Baroque architecture with colorful domes and spires is especially striking against the ancient fortress and Austrian Alpine backdrop. If you're looking for an amazing view, climb up to Hohensalzburg Fortress, Central Europe's largest intact fortress, for a jaw-dropping panorama of the city backed by misty mountains. Perhaps most famous for being the birthplace of the renowned composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and the filming location for the classic The Sound of Music, this city has much to offer. Salzburg has become an important artistic and cultural center, featuring magnificent concert halls that uphold the city's tradition of classical music every day of the year, as well as acclaimed art exhibitions and museums. If you do it right, your visit to Salzburg will immerse you in the city's unforgettable atmosphere and keep you coming back for more. 

Skyscrapers and an old church at sunset in Frankfurt

Frankfurt

Dubbed ‘Mainhatten’ for its glass highrises, financial prowess, and proximity to the Main River, Frankfurt offers a fascinating glimpse into the ‘engine room’ of Europe’s economy with an unexpected twist. Among the glass and steel buildings, the old-worldly Römerberg square will give you a double-take. The square’s 15th-century half-timbered houses, old statues, and church spires contrast dramatically against the modern 21st-century skyscrapers beyond. If you visit at Christmas, the Römerberg is truly special, aglow with the light of the tallest Christmas tree in Germany. The square fills with stalls selling handicrafts, and the air is scented with hot apple wine, honey, and cinnamon.  Delve deeper into Frankfurt and you’ll find a substantial museum district, the Museumsufer (Museum Embankment). This area features a cluster of twelve museums on either side of Main River. This includes the Städel, home to Tischbein’s famous painting of renowned writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, one of Frankfurt’s most prestigious sons. The more time you spend in Frankfurt, the more you’ll discover a highly cultured city lurking beneath its glass facades. If you have the time, Frankfurt is certainly worth a second look.